Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) License

A CNA license—more accurately referred to as CNA certification—is a state-issued credential that authorizes you to work as a nurse aide after meeting training and competency requirements and becoming listed on a State Nurse Aide Registry.

This is the case in most states. Although the term “license” is commonly used, nurse aides are typically certified rather than licensed, and your State Nurse Aide Registry listing serves as proof of status.

CNA certifications are regulated at the state level, typically by a state health department or board of nursing under federal standards established by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Accordingly, each state maintains and enforces its own State Nurse Aide Registry.

Your CNA status is officially verified through the State Nurse Aide Registry, which records active status, expiration, and any findings. Employers rely on this registry as the legal record of your certification.

You can find your identifying number in your State Nurse Aide Registry record. Some states display a certificate or registry number, while others use an identifier linked to your personal information.

This does not occur automatically. You may apply for reciprocity or endorsement in another state; however, approval depends on the receiving state’s rules and State Nurse Aide Registry review.

In the event that your CNA certification is suspended or revoked, you may not work as a nurse aide until state conditions are met. Findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation are recorded on the State Nurse Aide Registry and may permanently restrict employment nationwide.